5 things to do this weekend in Chicago

Cats, drinks, food, fashion and art––we've got it all in Chicago this weekend; here are five events that span the spectrum.

Open house for cute cats, obviously

If you’ve been looking for an excuse or the right time to adopt a cat––and who hasn’t?––the Merry Meows Holiday Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday gives you just that chance. The annual event happens at Harmony House (2914 N. Elston Ave.), the city’s eco-friendly, no-kill cat shelter. You can visit with the cats, do some pet-friendly holiday shopping and even sip some home-brewed beer. All proceeds benefit the cats at the shelter. Free admission.

Last call for warm-weather dranks

Winter is coming, but can it still be summer in your head? The Chicago Tequila and Sangria Festival tries to put you in a summer state of mind with some warm weather beverages in two sessions (noon to 3 p.m. and 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.) Saturday at Joe's Bar (940 W. Weed St.). Your ticket ($25-$40) includes admission, a souvenir tasting glass and any tequila and sangria tastings. A cash bar with food will also be available. Tickets: eventbrite.com.

2017’s final food festivals

Food festival season is pretty much over, but the Taste of Ravenswood sneaks in one final culinary event from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, and it’s a doozy. Ampersand Wine Bar, Band of Bohemia, KOVAL Distillery, Half Acre Beer Company, Spoken Cafe and more all get in on the neighborhood action, and the $70 ticket includes 20 drink samples and unlimited food. Plus, it’s indoors with live entertainment at the Ravenswood Event Center (4021 N. Ravenswood Ave.). Tickets: ravenswoodchicago.org.

Watch the catwalk

Chicago’s African Fashion Week will host one of its main events for the weeklong festivities beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday, when guests can peruse the goods and maybe do a little shopping at the vendor marketplace until 6:30 p.m. That’s when the runway show begins, featuring live music from a handful of DJs, as well. Get your style on and head to the Promontory (5311 S. Lake Park Ave. West). $20-$35. Tickets: promontorychicago.com.

Art galleries around town

Gallery Weekend Chicago began in 2011 as a way to showcase the diverse, impressive spectrum of contemporary art on display throughout the city. It continues today in the same spirit, inviting collectors, curators and critics from around the world for gallery tours, museum access and curated collections. This year’s event (now in the second of two weekends) spans neighborhoods like West Town, the South Loop and Pilsen, so check out their website for complete details on when to be where for different shows and artwork. All events are free and open to the public. More info: galleryweekendchicago.com.